Defense of Democracy Podcast

Addison K. Witt
  • 4.8 (42)
  • Politics
  • Updated Weekly

Friends. Allies. Americans. Folks taking small steps towards big change. The Defense of Democracy podcast tells their stories. Hosted by Addison K. Witt. Defense of Democracy is made up of people from all walks of life passionately committed to nonpartisanship. We welcome anyone who is interested in protecting their fellow Americans - in particular those in marginalized communities - from oppression. We advocate for legislators, educators, and administrators who will work to maintain communities as well as a public education system that supports and enhances our shared experiences regardless of religious beliefs, cultural background, or sexual orientation. Find out more: https://defenseofdemocracy.org/Podcast produced by the Volunteers of Defense of Democracy

  1. Jun 9

    Reforming Immigration: Protecting Children and Families with Suma Setty and Kaelin Rapport

    In this episode of the Defense of Democracy podcast, host Addison K. Witt speaks with Suma Setty and Kaelin Rapport of the Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP) about immigration policy, family separation, and the impact current enforcement practices are having on children, caregivers, and communities across the United States. Drawing on recent research conducted with immigrant families, childcare providers, healthcare workers, and community organizations, Suma and Kaelin share firsthand accounts of how fear, uncertainty, and immigration enforcement are affecting everyday life. Together, they explore the consequences of family detention, barriers to legal status, childhood trauma, access to education and healthcare, and the broader social and economic effects these policies have on communities. This conversation moves beyond political talking points and focuses on the lived experiences of children and families navigating a rapidly changing immigration landscape. It is a thoughtful discussion about human dignity, public policy, community responsibility, and what it means to create a society where all children can feel safe and supported. Key Takeaways How are current immigration policies affecting children and families across the United States?What are the long-term developmental and mental health impacts of childhood trauma and family separation?Why are immigrant families increasingly fearful of accessing schools, healthcare, childcare, and public spaces?How do immigration enforcement practices affect local communities and the broader economy?What misconceptions do many Americans have about the immigration system?Why is obtaining legal status often far more complicated than people realize?What policy changes could better protect children, families, and community well-being?How can ordinary citizens become more informed and engaged on these issues?Support the Defense of Democracy Nonprofit organization! For more information visit: Defense of Democracy.org Become a DofD Support Partner Simply by Texting: "SUPPORT" to  845-208-9846  Follow, Like and Get Involved! Connect with DofD on all the social platforms: Facebook Twitter TikTok Instagram

    43 min

  2. May 26

    Director Bart Everly on Jim Bidgood's Velvet Vision

    Have you ever wondered how deeply art reflects our true selves? Or hides behind a mask? Jim Bidgood's story reminds us that behind every masterpiece is a complex mix of authenticity and performance. His work wasn’t just art, it was a lifeline, a way to process what he couldn't say out loud. Bart Everly's film Velvet Vision shows that art isn’t just what we create, it’s also what we hide and reveal about ourselves. Join the Defense of Democracy Film Festival June 12 -14. Support the Defense of Democracy Nonprofit organization! For more information visit: Defense of Democracy.org Become a DofD Support Partner Simply by Texting: "SUPPORT" to  845-208-9846  Follow, Like and Get Involved! Connect with DofD on all the social platforms: Facebook Twitter TikTok Instagram

    38 min

  3. May 19

    Fred Osborn: What Democracy Really Means

    Fred Osborn shares a powerful truth: democracy is built on shared values, respect, and believing in each other's dignity. From his roots in nature to his service in Vietnam, he reminds us that civic engagement is rooted in everyday acts of kindness and  standing up for what's right. But do Americans still carry that faith in collective action, or has it waned? Support the Defense of Democracy Nonprofit organization! For more information visit: Defense of Democracy.org Become a DofD Support Partner Simply by Texting: "SUPPORT" to  845-208-9846  Follow, Like and Get Involved! Connect with DofD on all the social platforms: Facebook Twitter TikTok Instagram

    48 min

  4. May 12

    Hyunsoo Moon on Immigration, Identity, and Documentary Filmmaking

    In this episode of the Defense of Democracy podcast, host Addison K. Witt sits down with filmmaker Hyunsoo Moon, director of the documentary The Americans, for a deeply personal conversation about immigration, identity, belonging, and the meaning of the American Dream. Over the course of seven years filming immigrant families in Storm Lake, Iowa, Moon followed the lives of refugees and workers connected to America’s meatpacking industry, documenting not only hardship and sacrifice, but resilience, hope, and the quiet pursuit of happiness. Together, they explore how documentary storytelling can humanize political issues, challenge cultural assumptions, and redefine what it truly means to be “American.” This conversation moves beyond headlines and ideology into the lived experiences of people building lives in America while navigating cultural identity, generational change, labor, and the search for dignity. It is a powerful reflection on empathy, citizenship, and the stories often left out of the national conversation. Key Takeaways - What does the American Dream actually mean for immigrants and refugees? - How do immigrant families balance cultural identity with assimilation? - Why are immigrant communities central to many rural American economies? - What can documentary filmmaking reveal that political debate often misses? - How does growing up between two cultures shape identity and belonging? - Why did Storm Lake, Iowa become a symbol of immigrant integration? - Can storytelling help rebuild empathy in an increasingly divided America? - What does it really mean to call someone “American”? Learn more about The Americans documentary and support the film: theamericansdocumentary.com Support the Defense of Democracy Nonprofit organization! For more information visit: Defense of Democracy.org Become a DofD Support Partner Simply by Texting: "SUPPORT" to  845-208-9846  Follow, Like and Get Involved! Connect with DofD on all the social platforms: Facebook Twitter TikTok Instagram

    48 min

  5. May 7

    The Space Between Sides: Rethinking American Identity with Conor Broll

    In this episode of the Defense of Democracy podcast, host Addison K. Witt speaks again with writer and historian Conor Broll for a thoughtful conversation on ideology, identity, and the future of civic discourse in America. They examine what it means to think freely in an age of political tribalism, questioning whether Americans are becoming more independent or simply recognizing the limits of inherited systems. Conor reflects on stepping outside ideological echo chambers, the evolution of his project Beyond Ideology, and how history, culture, and shared human experience can help rebuild meaningful dialogue. From social media polarization to the fragility of democratic institutions, this discussion invites listeners to reconsider not just what they believe, but how those beliefs are formed. Key Takeaways Are we adopting beliefs rather than developing them for ourselves? Are we relying more on political identity than our own independent thinking? Is social media pulling us further apart and shaping what we choose to believe? How important is it to step back and question our own views? Can shared experiences (culture, art, and everyday life) help bring people back together? What would it look like to focus more on being citizens than political opponents? Are our biggest challenges really about policy, or about how we speak and lead? What does it actually take for a democracy to stay strong today? Follow Conor Broll’s insights on history, culture, and democracy at his Substack, Threat of Dissent, link below: https://conorbroll.substack.com/ Support the Defense of Democracy Nonprofit organization! For more information visit: Defense of Democracy.org Become a DofD Support Partner Simply by Texting: "SUPPORT" to  845-208-9846  Follow, Like and Get Involved! Connect with DofD on all the social platforms: Facebook Twitter TikTok Instagram

    44 min

  6. Apr 28

    How Grassroots Activism Can Save Public Schools with Rachel Doyle

    In this episode of the Defense of Democracy podcast, host Karen Svoboda steps in for Addison K. Witt to interview Rachel Doyle, known as "Reads with Rachel." They discuss the challenges of book banning and the broader implications for education and democracy. Rachel shares her personal journey from a strict fundamentalist upbringing to becoming an advocate for educational freedom and parental involvement. The conversation highlights the importance of grassroots activism, the role of privilege in advocacy, and the need for diverse voices in defending public education. Key Takeaways Book Banning Awareness: Rachel's experience highlights the growing issue of book banning, emphasizing the need for community involvement to protect educational freedom.Grassroots Activism: The importance of local advocacy is underscored, with Rachel encouraging parents to engage with school boards to influence educational policies.Privilege in Advocacy: Recognizing the role of privilege in being able to advocate for change, Rachel stresses the moral imperative to use one's position to support marginalized voices.Diverse Educational Needs: The conversation emphasizes the need for educational systems to address the unique needs of all students, particularly those with disabilities.Community Support: The Defense of Democracy's Thank-a-thon event is highlighted as a positive initiative to support and appreciate educators, fostering a sense of community and gratitude.Support the Defense of Democracy Nonprofit organization! For more information visit: Defense of Democracy.org Become a DofD Support Partner Simply by Texting: "SUPPORT" to  845-208-9846  Follow, Like and Get Involved! Connect with DofD on all the social platforms: Facebook Twitter TikTok Instagram

    33 min

  7. Apr 14

    The Literacy Crisis and How Parents Are Fighting Back

    In this episode of the Defense of Democracy podcast, host Addison K. Witt talks with Jason B. Allen from the National Parents Union. They delve into the critical issues facing American families, focusing on education, literacy, and the role of parents in shaping democratic values. The conversation highlights the literacy crisis, the impact of the pandemic on education, and the importance of parental engagement in schools. Jason shares insights into the challenges families face, including economic instability and the need for better support systems in schools. Key Takeaways Literacy Crisis: The pandemic exposed existing gaps in literacy, emphasizing the need for policies like the READ Act.Parental Engagement: Schools must move beyond involving parents to truly engaging them in decision-making processes.Economic Challenges: Families face significant stress due to economic instability, impacting their ability to support children's education.Safety in Schools: The need for counselors over security measures is crucial for addressing students' social and emotional needs.Diverse Learning Needs: Recognizing and supporting the unique learning needs of each child is essential for educational equity.Community Collaboration: Building partnerships and networks is vital for advocating positive change in education and democracy.Support the Defense of Democracy Nonprofit organization! For more information visit: Defense of Democracy.org Become a DofD Support Partner Simply by Texting: "SUPPORT" to  845-208-9846  Follow, Like and Get Involved! Connect with DofD on all the social platforms: Facebook Twitter TikTok Instagram

    50 min

  8. Mar 31

    The Importance of Grassroots Participation with Kristen Schultz

    In this episode of the Defense of Democracy podcast, host Addison K. Witt speaks with Kristen Schultz as she shares her journey from community engagement to running for local office. Discover how listening, trust, and leadership at the community level are vital to safeguarding democracy and building resilient neighborhoods. Key Takeaways: Kristen Schultz’s background influenced by her mother’s civic engagementThe importance of listening to community needs and storiesHow local elections significantly impact daily life, often decided by just a few votesStrategies to strengthen trust and participation in democracyThe role of leadership in fostering unity and combating polarizationChallenges and opportunities in addressing homelessness and housing crisesThe fragile state of trust and the importance of local action in democracyPersonal growth required to navigate public service, including resilience and tougher skinWhy participation and staying involved beyond elections matterThe power of community collaboration and building a collective voice Support the Defense of Democracy Nonprofit organization! For more information visit: Defense of Democracy.org Become a DofD Support Partner Simply by Texting: "SUPPORT" to  845-208-9846  Follow, Like and Get Involved! Connect with DofD on all the social platforms: Facebook Twitter TikTok Instagram

    55 min
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4.8
out of 5
42 Ratings

About

Friends. Allies. Americans. Folks taking small steps towards big change. The Defense of Democracy podcast tells their stories. Hosted by Addison K. Witt. Defense of Democracy is made up of people from all walks of life passionately committed to nonpartisanship. We welcome anyone who is interested in protecting their fellow Americans - in particular those in marginalized communities - from oppression. We advocate for legislators, educators, and administrators who will work to maintain communities as well as a public education system that supports and enhances our shared experiences regardless of religious beliefs, cultural background, or sexual orientation. Find out more: https://defenseofdemocracy.org/Podcast produced by the Volunteers of Defense of Democracy

Information

  • Creator
    Addison K. Witt
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    120
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Defense of Democracy Podcast
  • Show Website
    Defense of Democracy Podcast

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